Roofing questions, answered plainly

For a typical house with architectural shingles, about $11,000 to $20,000. Standing seam metal is roughly $24,000 to $42,000. Size, pitch and the number of old layers matter most. See the cost guide.

For homeowners, yes, with a written report and photos. Formal reports prepared for a real estate sale carry a fee.

Financing through third-party lenders is often available for larger jobs. See paying for a roof.

Winter work can take longer because of snow and cold, and that can show up in the price on some jobs. We'll say so on the estimate.

No. There's no statewide roofing license. That makes insurance and the local permit the things to check.

Yes. General liability and workers' compensation. We'll send the certificate before work starts.

Inside the city, the Central Permit Office at One Park Place. Outside it, your town or village. We file for you.

Usually not. Patching or replacing a few shingles typically doesn't; a full replacement does.

Heat from the house melting snow on the upper roof, which refreezes at the cold overhang. Read the ice dam guide.

Use a roof rake from the ground to pull snow off the lower few feet. Don't climb onto a snowy roof. For a very heavy load, call us.

Yes, for repairs, tarps, ice dam removal and some replacements on suitable days.

Here, more than anywhere. It's the membrane that keeps ice-dam water out of the house, and we install it along every eave and valley.

Sudden damage from wind, hail, ice or a fallen limb often is covered, less the deductible. Wear and age are not.

Yes. We bring the photos and measurements and walk the roof with them.

Stay safe, photograph what you can from the ground, and call if water is coming in. Keep receipts for any emergency work.